James Bond
Early Life
James Bond, also known by his code number 007, is a fictional character created by the British journalist and novelist Ian Fleming in 1952. The character appeared in a series of twelve novels and two short-story collections written by Fleming, starting with Casino Royale in 1953.
Bond is described as being in his mid-to-late thirties, of a height above average and a slim build. He is a Commander in the Royal Naval Reserve, reflecting Fleming's own wartime role in the Naval Intelligence Division. Bond's parents, Andrew Bond and Monique Delacroix, died in a climbing accident when he was eleven, leading him to be raised by his aunt.
Career at MI6
Bond is a Secret Service agent, working for MI6 under the command of M, the codename of his superior officer. His primary role at MI6 is as a field agent in the 00 Section. The 'double-O' prefix indicates his discretionary licence to kill in the field.
Bond's missions often involve him travelling to various parts of the world, including Jamaica, the United States, and Russia. He is known for his resourcefulness, physical prowess, and his signature introduction, "Bond, James Bond."
Characterization
Bond is portrayed as a highly intelligent, athletic, and charismatic individual. He is fluent in several languages, including French and Russian, and is highly skilled in unarmed combat, marksmanship, and espionage. Bond is also known for his love of luxury, with a particular interest in fine food, wine, and women.
Despite his charm and sophistication, Bond is also characterized by his cold professionalism, detachment, and ruthiness in the field. He is often depicted as a heavy smoker and drinker, with a particular fondness for vodka martinis "shaken, not stirred."
Influence and Legacy
James Bond has had a significant impact on popular culture, spawning a highly successful film franchise, as well as numerous video games, comics, and spin-off novels. The character has been portrayed by several actors, including Sean Connery, Roger Moore, and Daniel Craig.
Bond's influence extends beyond entertainment, with his character influencing real-world espionage, fashion, and lifestyle trends. His character has also been subject to various analyses and criticisms, particularly in regards to its representation of gender and British imperialism.